Weekend Best Bets: November 22-24

By Josie Franske

Friday, November 22

Not a Touchy-Feely Classic

WHAT: A Don’t Hug Me Christmas Carol
WHERE: New Century Theatre, Mpls.
WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
If the Guthrie’s A Christmas Carol runs a little too traditional for your tastes and you’re looking for a dose of holiday laughter, this should do the trick. This Minnesota-based musical comedy puts a spin on Dickens’ play while poking good fun at the people of Bunyan Bay and its crankiest bar proprietor with plenty of light-hearted moments. Learn more at hennepintheatretrust.org.

Friday, November 22

Arty Smarties

WHAT: MCAD Art Sale
WHERE: Minneapolis College of Art and Design, Mpls.
WHEN: 6 p.m.
The students at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design are varied and talented, and this 16th-annual sale of their work is sure to turn out some seriously impressive pieces. It’s the perfect spot to pick up art by a gifted-but-as-yet-unknown artist, for yourself or for your loved ones at the holidays. Proceeds go to the artists and the MCAD Art Sale Scholarship funds. Learn more at mcad.edu.

Saturday, November 23

Seasonal Sculpting

WHAT: Tidal Music
WHERE: Kolman & Pryor Gallery
WHEN: 7 p.m.
This unique opening features Kelly Jean Ohl’s meticulously crafted porcelain and stoneware bowls, which evoke biological marvels. The pieces will be displayed on wide white pedestals covered in sand to simulate beachcombing for the perfect treasures, and many of the bowls make music when they’re picked up or gently shaken—like elegant conch shells. Learn more at kolmanpryorgallery.com.

Saturday, November 23

A Last Walk

WHAT: Coldwater Tree Walk
WHERE: Coldwater Spring, Mpls.
WHEN: 1 p.m.
It’s no secret that winter is on the verge of hitting full force, so savor one last autumnal nature walk before the bone-chilling cold arrives (with all its other outdoor options). Coldwater Spring is in the process of being restored to an oak savanna prairie, and this naturalist-guided walk is a great way to take in the last of the fall leaves on the 500 trees that have been planted over the past year. Learn more at missriverfund.org.

Sunday, November 24

Outdoor Adventures Abound

WHAT: Midwest Mountaineering Outdoor Adventure Expo
WHERE: Midwest Mountaineering, Mpls.
WHEN: 10 a.m.
Winter adventures can be all kinds of fun, but they take a lot of preparation and definitely a lot of equipment—because, really, who wants to be stuck on a snowshoeing path without a proper coat? Head to the Midwest Mountaineering Outdoor Adventure Expo to get everything you need, plus hear speakers on topics ranging from climate change to wilderness survival tips, view mountain films, and visit dozens of exhibitors. Learn more at outdooradventureexpo.com.

Sunday, November 24

A Swingin’ Time

WHAT: Christmas of Swing
WHERE: History Theatre, St. Paul
WHEN: 2 p.m.
This Andrews Sisters holiday show is sure to lift spirits. Featuring real-life characters such as Danny Kaye and Bing Crosby, this show has something for everyone: The holiday music concert is peppered with comedy sketches and letters from real G.I.s. Plus, the show is free for all World War II vets—so grab Dad or Grandpa and sneak in some pre-holiday bonding time. Learn more at historytheatre.com.